Tuesday, December 21, 2010

Things to Keep in Mind...

When you are considering your New Year's resolutions, it might be helpful to think about your mentee. This can be a fun activity: create your New Years resolutions together. Pick a few that you can each support each other in and get going! 

Along those lines, I read this article this morning, and though it was geared towards parents, I think that many of the points made are applicable to you as mentors. It's taken and adapted from Family Circle magazine. They look like common sense, but they can be difficult at times. Just do your best, that is all we can ask for.
  • I will always care for my mentee for who they are — not who I want them to be.
  • I will give my mentee space to grow, to dream, to succeed and even to fail. Without that space, no growth can occur.
  • When discipline is necessary, I will let my mentee know that I disapprove of what they have done, not who they are. It’s a very important distinction.
  • I will set limits and help my mentee find security in the knowledge of what is expected of them. They will not have to guess what is right or wrong.
  • I will not burden my mentee with emotions and problems they are not equipped to deal with.
  • I will encourage my mentee to experience the world and all of its possibilities, taking pains to leave them careful but not fearful.
  • I will try to be the kind of person I want my mentee to be: loving, fair-minded, giving and hopeful.
Many happy, warm wishes to you and your families this winter. Let the rain be a reminder of renewal and refreshment as we journey into the new year.

Thank you for being wonderful mentors. With love from all of us here in the Mentor Program.

Monday, December 20, 2010

December Mentor of the Month

Jack Grabman
Jack and his mentee have shared many experiences together over the past 2 1/2 years. One of their favorite activities is fishing, which provides a chance for Jack to have good conversation with his mentee. They also go on bike rides, to car shows, and numerous Mentor program activities. Jack is always looking out for his mentee's best interest, encouraging him to do well in school and explore career options. He's taken him to his workplace and engaged him in learning new musical instruments.

Jack's mentee was unfocused, had low self-esteem, and was on the shy side when he was referred by his teacher. Now, he is well known at his school, has a desire to succeed, and has found confidence in his abilities. Jack has developed a friendship with his mentee's entire family and is always engaged in helping make sure his mentee continues in the right direction. Jack, thank you for always being by his side and supporting him every step of the way, even when times are rough and the future unsure. You are wonderful!!

November Mentor of the Month

Lisa Gosdschan
Although Lisa and her mentee have only been together a year, it seems like they have become family. Her mentee was referred to us because she needed guidance, direction, a healthy purpose in life. Lisa devotes several hours each day to making sure her mentee arrives at school on time, has food, clothing without holes, and has her hair combed and is ready to face the day. Lisa provides the support, care, and attention that every child dreams about.

Lisa not only meets with her mentee's teachers to check in about extra assignments that they can do together, she volunteers in the classroom and with the United Boys & Girls Club. She has opened up the eyes of her mentee by taking her to volunteer to help those even less fortunate. Together, they prepare meals and organize supplies. Lisa teaches her mentee valuable lessons every time they meet, whether that is to help her in the classroom or in the real world. She spends no less than 20 hours a month with her, but we know you can't place a number on their relationship.

Furthermore, Lisa helps us with almost every family event, comes into the office to help the staff, and is a great sounding board for idea development. Lisa, thank you for all of your contributions to this program, especially to your mentee's life. You go above and beyond.
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